Richard Parks Cadillac, the legendary American car brand, is officially preparing to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026. Backed by General Motors, the team will enter the sport as the 11th constructor—building a brand-new outfit from scratch. Led by British motorsport veteran Graeme Lowdon, the project is now racing against the clock to be ready for the opening race of the 2026 season.
Unveiling its ambitions during a high-profile event in Miami on Saturday night, Cadillac’s announcement marks a major milestone in its long-term push into elite motorsport. The team is not buying into an existing operation. Instead, it is developing everything in-house—from infrastructure and staff to a new car and engine.
A Ground-Up Effort with No Shortcuts
Lowdon, who previously led Manor’s entry into F1 in 2010, is well aware of the challenges ahead. “We have countdown clocks in every office,” he said. “We don’t want a last-minute scramble.” His experience from Manor—starting with nothing more than a screwdriver and a blank sheet of paper—has shaped Cadillac’s thorough approach.
Unlike some F1 newcomers, Cadillac has opted for a full works entry. Since August 2022, the team has worked in silence, focusing on planning, recruiting, and logistics. Even before the FIA confirmed its potential grid spot, the team quietly began hiring talent, using vague job postings that mentioned “top-tier motorsport opportunities” rather than the F1 name.
Once GM officially committed to the project, things accelerated. The company even pledged to develop its own power unit, targeting a 2029 rollout. Until then, the team will use Ferrari engines to compete from 2026 onward.
Building Facilities and Recruiting Talent
Cadillac’s project spans both sides of the Atlantic. A brand-new base in Fishers, Indiana will handle key operations, while a hub in Silverstone, England provides access to the F1 talent pool. GM’s technical team in Charlotte, North Carolina is also contributing.
The hiring rate is impressive—roughly one new employee joins every day. Top names already on board include:
- Nick Chester, former Renault F1 technical director
- Peter Crolla, ex-Haas team manager
- Jon Tomlinson, former Williams head of aerodynamics
- Pat Symonds, serving as an engineering consultant
“This kind of expertise, recruited before we had a guaranteed entry, shows how committed we are,” Lowdon explained. The next internal goals include finishing the chassis and achieving the car’s first fire-up—a key technical milestone.
Who Will Drive for Cadillac?
While no drivers have been officially named, speculation is growing. American IndyCar star Colton Herta and Red Bull veteran Sergio Pérez are both rumored contenders. Lowdon emphasized that the team’s choice will be based on skill, not nationality. Still, with an American car and American funding, a U.S. driver would be a strong marketing move.
“We want the best driver lineup possible,” Lowdon said. “But we also recognize the appeal of connecting with American fans on a deeper level.”
Why Cadillac’s F1 Entry Matters
This move is about more than just joining the grid. Cadillac’s arrival signals a shift in how major automakers view Formula 1. GM’s involvement brings heavyweight manufacturing power, global brand visibility, and a deep racing heritage. It also reflects the sport’s rising profile in the U.S., where races like Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas are drawing record crowds.
Until now, Haas was the only American team in F1. Cadillac’s entry adds not just another star-spangled name, but the full force of a global company. It also shows that Formula 1’s push into North America is paying off—not just with fans, but with major corporate players.
All Eyes on 2026
“This is a huge task,” Lowdon admitted. “We absolutely have to be on the grid for the first race of 2026. You can’t show up a week late and ask for a do-over.”
With tight deadlines and high expectations, Cadillac’s journey is now a high-speed sprint to the finish line. From facility builds to driver decisions, every step matters. As the clocks count down, all eyes will be on whether the newest name in F1 can hit the track—and make an impact.